Rugby
Steyn not having sleepless nights over Oranje─── MORGAN PIEK 13:33 Thu, 06 Mar 2025
Toyota Cheetahs coach Frans Steyn has thrown his full support behind Raegan Oranje playing at outside centre this weekend against the Boland Cavaliers in the opening round of the SA Cup.
Oranje, who is making his return to the sport after more than a year on the sidelines, will be playing just his second game for the Cheetahs. He previously featured on the wing against the Western Force, although his primary position is scrumhalf.
Two-time Rugby World Cup winner Steyn – who knows a thing or two about playing in the midfield – told OFM Sport that Oranje has what it takes.
“There are people who worry about him – I don’t,” said Steyn. “He’s big, he’s fast, and he communicates well on defence. In our drills, he’s never made a wrong decision. Sure, there are small things we need to talk about, but that doesn’t bother me. He looks good.
“We talk about these things, but who knows? Maybe Raegan is the next Lukhanyo Am. It's a good opportunity for us - we have to stretch the squad because we are so thin at the moment, but who know what will happen. Rugby is a funny game.”
Steyn added that there will be plenty to play for in this year’s SA Cup. He expects the competition to be stronger, faster, and more intense, with teams better prepared and hungrier for success. But most importantly, there’s a spot in the Currie Cup Premier Division up for grabs.
Cheetahs vs. Boland in 2024. Photo: Morgan Piek
“This is a crucial opportunity for our young players to test themselves and see where we stand as a team,” said Steyn, who admitted to a few sleepless nights since taking over as head coach.
“It’s also a chance for the leaders to step up and take control in high-pressure situations. The SA Cup holds great significance for us because securing a Currie Cup qualification remains a key objective. The players’ futures are in their own hands, and their performances will determine our success.”
Saturday’s clash between Boland and the Cheetahs in Wellington kicks off at 15:00.
Boland - TBA
Cheetahs - 15 Cohen Jasper, 14 Prince Nkabinde, 13 Raegan Oranje, 12 Jooste Nel, 11 Litha Nkula, 10 George Lourens, 9 Rewan Kruger, 8 Jeandré Rudolph, 7 Pierre Uys, 6 Neels Volschenk, 5 Victor Sekekete (captain), 4 Carl Wegner, 3 Aranos Coetzee, 2 Chucky der Westhuizen, 1 Hencus van Wyk
Replacements - 16 Vernon Paulo, 17 Dux Manyana, 18 Laurence Victor, 19 Pieter Jansen van Vuren, 20 Andisa Ntsila, 21 Daniel Maartens, 22 Jandré Nel, 23 Banie Britz
